Surface design collection inspired by Jequitinhonha Valley - Brazil
The “Vale do Jequitinhonha”, in the north of Minas Gerais, is a sun-drenched valley of semi-arid highlands.
For the collection, I was inspired by the graphic identity and the linework of the master ceramicists, and the local flora, including the “chuveirinho” a drought tolerant “evergreen” pin-cushion like flower that looks like a firework.
The result is unique visual language and textures that feel joyful and a bit naïf. The cement tiles are also a nod for the brazilian colonial memory, something that is really strong and alive at the heart of Minas Gerais.
Its ceramics were born from a mix of heritage and necessity, crafted by women who molded everyday life into clay. Originally, the production was strictly utilitarian pots, pans, and jugs for survival. The famous “Noivas do Jequitinhonha” (the ceramic brides) were sculpted by ‘widows of living husbands’, as the valley women were called, left to navigate the drought and life alone by necessity, while their husbands chased work in distant lands. These ceramics became both the bread on the table and the voice of these resilient women.
Part One: Clay In Bloom
The origin of ceramic florals happened through the creamic brides. These figures began wearing intricate crowns of clay flowers and carrying bouquets that would never wither.
Over time, these flowers broke free from the statues and became a language of their own. They made the desert bloom in ceramics. These pieces are painted with “tauá” and “tabatinga”, natural pigments dug straight from the ground.
I studied carefully as many ceramic patterns as I could, to learn their visual language.
Usually I like to work with a more reduced palette, but when I started digging into the ceramic colors of the Vale, I couldn’t bring myself to choose or edit. So I ended up with way more shades than I’d usually pack into one collection, but happy with the palette.
I just love how the whole family of clays and terracottas interact with each other in analogous harmonies, creating a deep, layered beauty with subtle contrasts.
To honor all the depth and richness of the theme, I’m still working on a second release of prints for this collection!
COMING SOON
Part Two: Living Matter in Tauá
© Gabriela Bellarosa. All rights reserved. Artworks available for licensing upon request.